As Parents to a child in Stage 1 of the On Purpose Parents Plan, your role is what we refer to as a Caregiver and your goal is that your child will “See Your Faith.” Your involvement is critical to not just meeting your child’s physical requirements but also establishing the groundwork for their emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Here is an overview of your Caregiver role and your goal to help you win during this wonderful time and develop your relationship with your beautiful little one. There are 3 important actions for you to take that will help you reach your goal for this stage:
1) Provide Security
Your child looks to you as a secure refuge. You can create a supportive environment by developing routines. Predictability provides comfort to children, helping them feel secure. Consistent sleep, feeding, and playing schedules can help your youngster feel secure.
2) Build Trust
Trust is the foundation of all relationships. Be available to your child when they need you, respond quickly to their cues, and let them sense your presence. When your child learns that they can rely on you, they develop a sense of security and trust that they will carry with them throughout their lives.
3) Express Love
Love has the power to bring everything together. Show your little one warmth, hugs, smiles, and words of encouragement. Your love is a tremendous strength that not only promotes their emotional well-being but also provides the groundwork for them understanding the true meaning of love.
“See Your Faith” is the Goal
As you go about your daily routines, practice your trust in Jesus. Let your words and actions reflect your faith. Children are alert observers, and they learn by example. By consistently providing security, building trust, and expressing love, you are helping your child clearly see your faith.
Being their Caregiver is a unique blessing filled with joy, challenges, and endless learning opportunities. Embrace this role, be present, and enjoy the wonder of your child’s development. Your commitment to meeting their current needs will help to lay a solid basis for their future.
Remember that you are not alone on this path. Regularly connect with Jesus and other parents, share your experiences, and ask for help as needed. Cherish every minute of this stage, since your child’s early years are a priceless gift that will shape their future.
Click Here for a Free Resource: “The On Purpose Parents Strategy – Quick Guide”
Click Here to watch, “Guiding Your Kids In Each Stage”
Author
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Chris married his beautiful bride, Tina, in 1990. They have three wonderful adult children, Jacob, Kaylee, and Macie Joy. Chris began pastoring at a church in Los Angeles in 1995 where he was the Children’s and Student Pastor. He was the Executive Pastor of Student Ministries at John Maxwell's church in South Florida before he came to Saddleback in 2008 as our Pastor to 20s/30s. He has since served as Singles Pastor, Small Groups Pastor, Marriages Pastor, and Parents Pastor. He is currently our Extensions Pastor, leading the charge for Saddleback Church start-ups across the US and world. He earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biblical Studies and his Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership.
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